The 10 Best hot yoga mats for Sweaty Hot Yoga Classes

Good hot yoga has exploded in popularity in recent years, with its heated chambers cranking up the intensity of traditional yoga poses. Whether you practice Bikram or another hot yoga style, working out in high temperatures makes you sweat buckets — so your mat is especially important to provide excellent grip and support. We tested and researched over 25+ top-rated yoga mats to find the greatest options purpose-built for hot yoga.

Best hot yoga puts extra wear and tear on your mat, plus leads to super sweaty hands, feet, and puddles of sweat pooling in your mat. A great hot yoga mat must have excellent traction, prime cushioning for more intense floor poses, additional thickness to be kinder on joints, and absorbent microfiber to soak up all that sweat. Imperfect grip makes balancing postures dangerous, and a lack of joint cushioning causes strain or even injury with so many floor holds in the heated room. Cheap, low-quality mats deteriorate faster and harbor odor and mildew buildup.

With so many yoga mat choices out there, it can be confusing for hot yoga students to pick the right one optimized for their heated practice. That’s why we put in the hours of study and stretching to bring you the verdict on the top 10 highest-performing yoga mats for hot classes. We considered over a dozen factors like a truly non-slip grip in wet conditions, excellent joint and knee protection, odor resistance, durable materials for extreme workouts, and easy cleaning for hygienic use.

After hours of humidity chamber testing, research, and real-world hot yoga sessions, we’re confident these are the best yoga mats for hot yoga to keep sweat and odor at bay while delivering the traction, cushioning, and support to power through even the most grueling Bikram sequence. We’ll compare the pros and cons of each top mat pick and share tips on what to consider when shopping around. Read on to discover the ultimate yoga mats for hot yoga perfection.

Comparison Table of the Top 10 good yoga mats for hot yoga:

Top hot Yoga Mat Reviews for Hot Yoga

#1. Peloton Reversible Mat 5mm review:

Peloton produces top-quality yoga and athletic apparel, so it’s no surprise their 5mm reversible mat is a stellar choice for hot yoga. Constructed from anti-mildew polyurethane and natural rubber, the grippy texture on top and smooth compressive rubber underside provide excellent traction – even when wet with your own sweat. The grip holds up over time better than some all-rubber mats.

Despite the $68 price tag, the reversible nonslip layers, effective sweat absorption, versatile 5mm cushioning, and overall craftsmanship justify the extra investment to handle the hot yoga wear and tear. Plus Peloton offers an impressive variety of stylish color blocks and prints from understated classics to cheerful cherry blossoms and tie-dye.

With stellar grip, just enough knee/wrist joint padding, and a lightweight 2.2 lb build, it’s easy to pack the Peloton mat for class or transport during travels. The grip excels with dry palms but still remains decent when sweaty. The mat smells fresh post-workout thanks to the moisture-wicking layer.

Ideal For: Yogis who love Peloton gear and want a fashionable, high-performance yoga mat for hot classes with confidence-inspiring traction.

#2. Manduka Pro Yoga Mat 6mm products:

Manduka makes the leading extra-thick yoga mat favored by pros and teachers alike for joint protection and perfect traction. Their standard Pro model mat provides phenomenal grip from the durable dot and dimple traction technology on the 6mm all-natural rubber base. The texture prevents sliding in hot classes while light sweat absorption keeps pools at bay.

It delivers ample dense cushioning to prevent strain on sensitive wrists, knees, and joints from long floor holds – a godsend during intense Bikram. A lack of strong chemical rubber odor also wins favor with hot yoga students. The Manduka Pro lives up to its reputation for quality and longevity backed by a lifetime guarantee to retain its grip and support.

The main tradeoff is the heavy 7.5 lb weight, so it may not suit more mobile practices. Manduka advises seasoning the mat properly when new to maximize non-slip performance, so prepare for a break-in phase. Once worn in though, the Manduka Pro offers unmatched traction and padding.

Ideal For: Hot yoga students needing maximum joint/knee support and slippery grip for tough poses.

#3. Jade Harmony Yoga Mat reviews

For a greener mat packed with stellar traction minus chemical smells, consider the Jade Harmony. Mats made sustainably from natural tree rubber excel in hot yoga with superior grip – and Jade Yoga utilizes an open cell structure to absorb moisture and sweat drips while retaining no-slip texture.

At 0.75 inches thick and weighing under 5 pounds, the Harmony mat hits the sweet spot between sufficient joint padding and unwieldy bulk for regular transport and practice. The traction stays secure in balance poses despite perspiration dripping everywhere! Less cushion than the Manduka Pro makes floor hold more challenging on sensitive wrists and knees during Bikram.

Jade Yoga plants a tree for every mat sold, with sustainable and renewable rubber harvesting methods earning them high eco-conscious marks. With conscientious construction, a confident grip, and a reasonable mid-tier price point below $80, the Jade Harmony makes an outstanding hot yoga mat pick.

Ideal For: Eco-friendly yogis wanting a thinner, high traction natural rubber mat minus chemicals smells.

#4. Gaiam Premium Print 5mm Yoga Mat review

Gaiam makes excellent beginner-friendly yoga mats on a budget, with their Premium Print 5mm offering style and performance nicer than basic options. Choose from fun prints like tie-dye, mandalas, marble, and nature designs to brighten up your downward dog.

The lightweight PVC foam provides adequate 5mm padding for the joints and knees while gripping decently with its etched textured surface. However, very sweaty hot yoga practices lead to some slipperiness and moisture absorption compared to more advanced yoga mat materials tailored for heat. We appreciate the included strap for easy roll-up post-class.

For more casual hot yoga-goers not pushing extreme flexibility limits, the Gaiam Premium hits a sweet under $80 price spot with its cheerful prints and good enough traction and padding combo. Just don’t expect it to be 100% non-slip if pools of sweat accumulate.

Ideal For: Budget-conscious yogis wanting a basic printed mat that offers respectable grip and cushioning for casual to intermediate hot yoga.

#5. Liforme Yoga Mat products

The Liforme mat wins devotees with its extreme grip, plush 4mm cushioning from natural rubber and cork, helpful alignment markers, and large dimensions. All that comes at a staggering $150+ price only dedicated hot yoga lovers can justify.

The proprietary “GripForMe” rubber technology featuring a waffled texture and moisture-wicking layer works extremely well to grab palm and foot skin for confidence during sweat-filled flows. Prepare to break it in fully over 20+ uses to maximize its non-slip potential.

In terms of padding, Liforme’s 4mm thickness hits a nice balance with adequate wrist and knee support minus being overly bulky or heavy. The surface absorbs moisture well and resists mildew smells from lingering sweat droplets. We appreciate the thoughtful alignment marker system and generous dimensions for taller yogis – although the mandatory “hungry hippos” graphic may elicit some eye rolls.

Ideal For: Hot yoga students are serious about investing in the “rolls royce” of mats for unparalleled grip, cushioning, and helpful markings.

#6. Yoloha Native Originals review

Yoloha shook up the yoga mat game with their revolutionary “AirCushion Technology” grip system molded directly into the all-natural rubber base. This 3D imprint texture works shockingly well to grip and hold skin when dripping in sweat. No extra microfiber layers or textured coatings are needed!

The proprietary grip holds up over time much better than bare rubber options that flatten out. AirCushion mats require a “renewal” every 12 months using Yoloha’s grip-enhancing solution to resurface the impressions – a minor tradeoff for unbeatable wet & dry traction otherwise.

At a slim 3mm thickness, joints do ache a bit more in long holds. But the feather-light 4 lb rubber carries ample size for taller yogis to strike poses. No rubber odor emerges even when fresh or sweat-soaked. For $88, Yoloha makes a convincing case to invest in their patented mat technology that redefines nonslip abilities.

Ideal For: Hot yoga students wowed by Yoloha’s revolutionary stamped grip seeking the next evolution in mat traction technology.

#7. Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Mat product

Frequent travelers who still want to sneak in hot yoga sessions on the road will love Manduka’s eKo Superlite. At an impressively packable 1.4 pounds and just 2mm thickness, it folds down tiny to stash in carry-ons without adding heft.

The lightweight eKo still manages a reasonable grip to support standing balances and sweaty downward dogs thanks to its dotted texture. It absorbs a bit more moisture than premium options, but the natural rubber resists odors effectively. As expected with such a thin mat, wrist and knee padding proves minimal.

For $48, the super portable, eco-friendly eKo works nicely for travel or spare practices without breaking the bank. Casual yogis will appreciate it, but intense hot flows demand more cushioning and non-slip severity.

Ideal For: Travelers needing a slim, packable mat that offers passable grip and padding for casual hot yoga abroad.

#8. Aurorae Synergy 2mm Hot Yoga Mat products

Aurorae produces several hot yoga-specific mats with sweat-wicking finishes, antimicrobial properties, and gentle cushioning targeted for heated rooms. The Synergy 2mm version offers integrated PER technology that excels at absorbing moisture while retaining a decent grip even when saturated.

Weighing just 2.5 lbs, it strikes an easy-to-tote balance and rolls up cleanly. The raised pyramid texture prevents sliding palms with a light sweat, although pools warrant extra caution with trickier balancing postures. Still, Aurorae feels great quality for the $69.45 price with effective sweat and microbe resistance that minimizes odors.

Ideal For: Value-focused students wanting a customizable affordable mat for hot classes with moisture and odor control.

#9. Clever Yoga Hot Grip Yoga Mat review

Newcomer Clever Yoga makes a bold entrance with their Hot Grip Yoga Mat engineered specifically to combat slippage during hot yoga flows. Its two-sided construction pairs a moisture-wicking microfiber top layer with a non-slip natural tree rubber base for impressive traction wet or dry.

We love the 5mm thickness offering ample wrist and knee padding for long holds. The antimicrobial microfiber absorbs pools of sweat rapidly while avoiding the odor issues plaguing cheaper mats. Another perk includes easy machine washing and drying thanks to the fabric layer without distorting – huge for cleaning off funky smells from all that built-up sweat!

In our humid testing chambers, the Clever Hot Grip lives up to its name with steadfast grip in sopping wet conditions for balancing poses. The hybrid materials offer the best of both worlds. Rubber alone lacks absorption while microfiber alone turns dangerously slick. Together they make a match to conquer hot classes.

At a $99.99 list price, the mat falls on the premium end but impressive early performance and durable construction justify the investment for superior hot yoga traction. For those seeking confidence to stick to their wildest sweat-filled poses, the newcomer Clever Hot Grip warrants consideration amongst veteran brands.

Ideal For: Sweaty yogis impressed by Clever’s hybrid rubber + microfiber traction seeking ultimate grip for advancing skills safely.

#10. Toplus Extra Thick Yoga Mat reviews

Budget-focused students can save money with Toplus and their extra thick 1/2 inch mat maintaining better-than-basic traction and cushioning in hot environments.

The NBR foam cushioning succeeds at protecting sensitive joints while supporting proper alignment holding challenging poses. We also appreciate the double-sided non-slip texture grabbing nicely when palms sweat versus cheaper mats losing all grip immediately.

That said, the significant 5-pound weight makes transport to classes cumbersome. And moisture does soak deeper into the porous foam compared to more advanced sweat-wicking materials. You’ll want to clean it promptly after heated sessions to prevent odors.

For just $49.99 though, the Toplus surprises with impressive padding and texture beyond its price. Casual and beginner hot yoga goers not pushing extreme flexibility limits will appreciate the joint relief without breaking the bank.

Ideal For Cost-conscious individuals wanting decent padding and traction under $50 and better suited for casual hot yoga.

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Buyer’s Guide for Picking the top rated hot yoga mats for Hot Yoga:

With so many factors impacting hot yoga mat selection, it helps to know what features to prioritize for your sweat-drenched practices. Here are key criteria to consider when choosing the best yoga mat to withstand steamy temperatures:

Grip & Traction:

A confident grip tops the list of must-haves since slippery mats lead to instability, injuries, and compromised poses. Seek out textured, etched surfaces or moisture-wicking layers that grab hold of sweaty palms and prevent sliding around mid-flow. Natural tree rubber offers prime traction too.

Cushioning & Thickness:

Extra thick mats over 5mm excel for ample knee and joint padding during prolonged floor holds. If you have sensitive joints or arthritis, invest in at least a 1/4-inch thickness for comfort. Average cushy mats measure between 3-5mm.

Odor & Mildew Resistance:

Hot temperatures accelerate mat deterioration, stink buildup, and mildew growth without the right antimicrobial properties. Choose options with anti-microbial additives that resist odor and mold – or easy-clean surfaces compatible with vigorous scrubbing.

Weight:

Lugging around a thick, heavyweight mat becomes annoying fast. Seek more transportable middle weights between 4-5 lbs unless maximum knee support merits heavier options.

Eco-Friendliness:

Sustainably made natural tree rubber mats generally outperform synthetic PVC and EVA options better for grip, cushioning, and antimicrobial abilities. But they carry a higher price tag.

Cost:

Budget picks can start at $20 but rarely last through intense hot classes with their flimsier grip and thin padding. Splurge if you practice frequently for $70+ to get a long-term mat that protects your body.

No matter your budget and needs, opting for a hot yoga-specific mat engineered to combat sweat, traction loss, and deterioration saves money over replacing cheaper mats multiple times a year. With better cushioning and grip, you can progress faster through poses as well in the heated classroom.

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Our The best hot Yoga Mat Picks for Hot Yoga:

All five yoga mats shine as top contenders for even the sweatiest hot yoga practices. The Manduka Pro stands out as our #1 ultimate choice with its unbeatable traction, cushy support, and legendary 6mm construction designed for intense sweaty classes.

We also love the Lululemon Reversible mat for its lightweight moisture-wicking abilities and style points earning its second-place status.

The Jade Harmony mat beats out the eco-friendly competition with better-wet grip and joint padding at a reasonable mid-tier price point, making it another stellar rubber pick for hot environments.

While no budget options made the top 3, the Gaiam Premium Print takes fourth as a reasonably priced printed choice for more casual hot yoga goers.

Travelers should stash the ultra-packable Manduka eKo Superlite for maintaining their practice on the road.

No matter your favorite mat, remember to clean it thoroughly after heated classes to combat odor and mildew buildup from lingering sweat. Saluting your top choice helps power through the intensity of hot yoga poses safely with the grip and cushion to aid your practice, not hinder it. Never settle for a basic mat lacking the moisture control and traction you need in the heat – your body will thank you!

Take the Heat in Your Practice with a Grippy Yoga Mat

Finding the right yoga mat optimized for hot and heated practices drastically improves comfort, traction, and moisture control when temperatures blast and sweat drip. Slipping around on a basic mat simply doesn’t cut it for advancing your poses and flexibility in such intense conditions.

We hope our thorough reviews of the 10 best yoga mats for hot yoga help narrow the myriad options to reveal the standout picks purpose-built for grip, cushioning, antimicrobial abilities, and durability in extremely sweaty environments.

Whether the legendary Manduka Pro, sweat-wicking Lululemon, grippy Jade Harmony, printable Gaiam, ultra-portable Manduka eKo, or other stellar designs lead the way, choose your mat champion wisely. An investment in quality now pays dividends for years of stable and comfortable hot yoga flows to come – no matter how sweaty the class may be! are yoga mats comfortable?

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